Flying with your dog can be a nerve-wracking experience for both of you. I’ve been there, and if I’m honest, it sends my anxiety through the roof after an unpleasant air travel experience. So, before you embark on your journey, a comfortable airline-approved in-cabin pet carrier is a must to make the trip more enjoyable. I’ve done my research to help you find your best options among the dozens upon dozens of pet carriers on the market. I also share my tips on what to look for in an appropriate airline-approved dog carrier and our team’s personal experience. So, let’s take a closer look.
| Basic | Budget | With Wheels | Backpack | Expandable | Stylish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |  |  |
| Sherpa | Henkelion | KOPEKS | PetAmi Deluxe | Petsfit | Wild One |
| View on Chewy | View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon | Visit Website |
| Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review |
Airline-Approved Pet Carrier Sizes
Here are the recommended size requirements and dimensions for the major U.S. Airlines:
| Airline | Hard-Sized Size | Soft-Sided Size |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | 17″ L x 11″ W x 7.5″ H | 17″ L x 11″ W x 9.5″ H |
| American | 19″ L x 13″ W x 9″ H | 18″ L x 11″ W x 11″ H |
| Delta | Varies depending on the aircraft | 18″ L x 11″ W x 11″ H |
| Frontier | 18″ L x 14″ W x 8″ H | 18″ L x 14″ W x 8″ H |
| Jet Blue | 17″ L x 12.5″ W x 8.5″ H | 17″ L x 12.5″ W x 8.5″ H |
| Southwest | 18.5” L x 13.5” W x 9.5” H | 18.5” L x 13.5” W x 9.5” H |
| Spirit | 18″ L x 14″ W x 9″ H | 18″ L x 14″ W x 9″ H |
| United | 17.5″ L x 12″ W x 9″ H | 18″ L x 11″ W x 11″ H |
Always double-check with your airline about their current requirements and restrictions when flying with pets, and check out our guide on pet fees for flying with dogs. I’ve found that policies change fairly frequently, so it’s best to verify your airline’s most current regulations every time you fly. The carrier size can vary by aircraft and destination, even for the same airline.
7 Best Airline-Approved Pet Carriers
I’ve chosen my top picks for airline pet carriers based on several factors: quality and durability, good ventilation and other pet comfort features, safety features, carrying ease, pricing, customer feedback, our team’s experience, and more.
All of the best dog carriers for airplanes I review here are for in-cabin use, except for my top pick for the cargo area for large dogs. All carriers must be small enough to fit completely (and comfortably) under the seat in front of you, with plenty of ventilation for your pet (while remaining inside and closed at all times).
Best Basic: Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier Review
This Sherpa dog carrier for a plane is one of the most popular in-cabin airline-approved dog carriers for its fantastic basic features, reasonable price, and the company’s unique “Guaranteed On-Board” program. With this program, which partners with airlines such as American, Delta, United, and Southwest, you’ll be reimbursed for your flight cost and pet fees if you’re not allowed to board due to a carrier issue (this applies to the small and medium-sized Sherpa carriers only).
It features mesh panels for excellent ventilation, a faux lambskin liner for comfort, a scratch-resistant interior, locking zippers, and a spring wire frame you can compress to fit under airplane seats. You can carry it with the adjustable non-slip shoulder strap or padded handles or attach it to your rolling luggage. It also has a storage pocket for your pup’s leash, treats, etc. There are a few complaints of the zippers coming apart, but on the whole, this is a great no-frills airline pet carrier.
Sizing
- Small: Fits pets up to 13″L x 7.5″H; up to 8 pounds
- Medium: Fits pets up to 16″L x 10″H; up to 16 pounds
- Large: Fits pets up to 18″L x 11″H; up to 22 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Guaranteed On-Board program for small & medium sizes | Some complaints of the zipper breaking & that the mesh sides aren’t very sturdy |
| Comfortable & well-ventilated | A few customers say the sizes run very small |
| Safety belt attaches to luggage handle | |
| Lightweight | |
| Liner is machine-washable | |
| Available in 3 sizes & 3 colors |
Price
- Starts at $143.99
Best Budget: Henkelion Pet Carrier Review
I think Henkelion’s pet carrier is the best budget pick because it offers most of the things you need without the high price tag. It has durable, lightweight polyester fabric with three meshed sides for ultimate ventilation and visibility. It has two loop handles for balanced carrying, and they also connect to help secure them to your luggage during transport. The shoulder strap has padding and is adjustable for your comfort. The inner leash helps to keep your pup secure and has a side pocket for additional storage.
This pet carry bag has a wooden base to keep your dog secure and a foam and woolen mat to keep your pet comfy during transit. The bag is easy to fold when not in use for easy storage and comes in six colors. Although it is available in two sizes, only the medium size is suitable for in-cabin use. There are a few complaints that the wooden board isn’t solid enough, but it’s important to consider your dog’s weight when picking a size. But for under $30, it’s a top contender thanks to its overall features and comfy interior.
Sizing
- Medium: 17″L x 11″W x 11″H; up to 15 pounds
- Large: 20″L x 13″W x 13″H; up to 25 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Budget-friendly pet carrier option | Some customers state the wooden board isn’t solid enough |
| It has 3 mesh sides for ventilation & visibility | |
| Adjustable, padded shoulder strap | |
| It has a foam & woolen mat for comfort | |
| It has an inner leash & side pocket | |
| Comes in 6 colors |
Price
- Starts at $23.99
Best With Wheels: KOPEKS Deluxe Backpack Pet Travel Carrier Review
If you have a bad back or want to stroll through the airport easily, I recommend KOPEKS as the best airline-approved pet carrier with wheels. This combination backpack/carrier with wheels is made with durable 600D Oxford fabric. It also has three mesh panels for good ventilation and visibility, making the interior comfortable. The sturdy but smooth-spinning double wheels help you maneuver your pet easily on your travels.
This travel carrier has an inner leash to keep your pup secure, as well as reinforced mesh panels. It’s also well-padded for your and your pet’s comfort and has two zippered pockets to store your pup’s leash, toys, and treats. The straps and handle are adjustable offering multiple ways to carry your pet. It comes in three colors and two sizes, although the dimensions of the large option aren’t suitable for in-cabin travel. This bag comes with a two-year warranty (conditions apply).
Sizing
- Small/Medium: 13″L x 12″W x 20″H; up to 10 pounds
- Large: 13″L x 17.5″W x 20″H; up to 18 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-quality construction | Medium size may be a tight fit for dogs over 10 pounds |
| Multiple ways to carry | |
| Good ventilation | |
| Available in 2 sizes and 3 colors (large isn’t airline-approved for under seat) | |
| It comes with a 2-year warranty |
Price
- Starts at $59.30
Best Backpack: PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack Review
If you have a small dog or cat and want to keep your hands free for your carry-on or luggage, this PetAmi backpack pet carrier is an excellent choice. It’s well-ventilated and designed with sturdy material and a reinforced steel frame that won’t collapse on your pet. It also has sherpa-lined bedding for comfort, two-way entry for easy access, and a zippered storage pouch.
The back and shoulder straps have extra-thick padding and waist and chest buckles for your comfort and support. This bag comes in 12 colors, and each option has a name label on the front to add your contact details. Although it states it can cater to canines up to 18 pounds, some reviewers felt the interior wasn’t wide enough to fit bigger pups in. It comes with a collapsible bowl and is great for traveling, even for cycle rides or long hikes.
Sizing
- One size: 12.5″L x 10.2″W x 16.3″H; up to 18 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great fit under the seat | Liner isn’t machine-washable |
| Sturdy, reinforced steel frame | A few customers report that it runs small |
| Well-ventilated | |
| Padded shoulder straps and chest and waist belts | |
| Available in 12 colors |
Price
Best Expandable: Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier Review
If you want to give your pup more room to stretch out in the airport or during your flight, this Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier is a must. Its wire frame and durable Oxford cloth material keep it from collapsing, but it compresses well under the seat. It features anti-scratch mesh ventilation, two-way access, cozy padding, self-locking zippers, and a storage pocket. You can attach it to your rolling luggage or use the hand or shoulder straps.
Customers say the small and medium sizes are airline-approved, but the large may be too high to meet some airlines’ requirements. However, Petsfit says you can remove two detachable fiber optic rods at the top to decrease the bag’s height without compromising your pet’s comfort. It comes in four colors to match your pet’s personality. This is a great option if you’re looking for a spacious interior.
Sizing
- Small: 16”L x 10”W x 9”H; up to 9 pounds
- Medium: 17”L x 11”W x 11”H; up to 13 pounds
- Large: 19”L x 12”W x 12”H; up to 18 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easily expandable for more interior room | There is not as much ventilation as other carriers we review here (when not expanded) |
| The wire frame helps keep its shape | There are a few complaints about stitching coming undone and zippers breaking |
| You can attach the bag to your luggage handle | |
| Available in 3 sizes & 4 colors | |
| You can detach rods to make the larger size fit under the seat |
Price
- Starts at $49.98
Most Stylish: Wild One Pet Carrier Review
Looking for the best airline pet carrier that’s also stylish? The Wild One carrier has all the bells and whistles you’d expect, plus a comfy plush mat for your pup to travel in style. The top zipper moves in either direction, and both sides open up, giving you flexibility. The zips clip together, too, for additional safety. There is no window on the sides, but a full mesh area allows the dog to see and breathe easily.
There are plenty of zipper pockets to store treats and other items, including a slot for your phone case on the side. The carrier has a padded strap to carry on your shoulder, which doubles as a leash! The sturdy handles if you prefer to hold it in your hands. This stylish airline pet carrier comes in three colors: black, tan, and my favorite, spruce green. It also comes with a one-year warranty for peace of mind, and Wild One also sells equally stylish products, including harnesses and collars, to complete your canine’s outfit.
Sizing
- One Size: 17.5” L x 11″ W x 10″ H; up to 16 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish pet carrier bag | Only one size |
| Features a comfy plush mat | |
| It has safety zippers | |
| Padded shoulder straps double up as a leash | |
| Comes in 3 colors | |
| It comes with a 1-year warranty |
Our First-Hand Experience
Our 15-pound dog has plenty of room and seems very cozy inside. He likes being able to pop his head out of the corner to look around. The high-quality material makes it durable and easy to clean. The padding on the bottom is spongy and supportive, almost like an orthopedic bed. It has all the strength of a heavy-duty carrier at a lighter weight than the average, making it easier to carry.
– Sadie Cornelius, Parent to Cavalier King Charles Spaniel & Creative Marketing for Canine Journal
Price
Read our full Wild One review for more information on this premium pet brand, its product range, and our personal experience.
Best For Large Dogs: Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier Review
This Petmate airline-approved pet carrier for large and extra-large dogs meets the requirements for pets flying in the cargo area. However, some airlines may require extra metal bolts, which Petmate sells separately in its travel kit. With heavy-duty, durable construction, this TSA-approved pet carrier keeps your pup safe and comfortable thanks to the larger dimensions and spacious interior.
It’s ventilated on all sides and has a clip-on food and water bowl, two “Live Animal” stickers, and pet ID stickers. It also has convenient pre-drilled zip-tie holes (airlines require you to zip-tie the kennel door shut). Always check with your airline about the size and weight restrictions when flying with larger dogs. It comes with a limited one-year warranty.
Note: Most major U.S. airlines no longer allow pets to fly in the cargo area due to liability reasons. There is no temperature control, and air cabin pressure is a risk (in addition to no pet supervision during transit). I recommend working with a pet relocation service if you are moving or need to travel long distances or your dog suffers from travel anxiety.
Sizing
- 6 Sizes: View all options
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Heavy-duty construction | Metal bolts, zip ties, and pet beds are sold separately |
| 4-way vault door for extra security | Some reports that the kennel sizing is off |
| Includes clip-on food and water bowls | |
| Available in 6 sizes | |
| Made in the USA |
Price
- Starts at $43.99
Other Ways To Fly With My Dog – Bark Air
If you have travel anxiety and are unsure whether your dog would like to travel in a pet carrier or the cargo area, there is another option besides traveling by car. And that is Bark Air. Bark Air is a chartered canine service that puts your dog in first class. From booking to arrival, dogs are the VIPs treated to a luxurious and curated experience. There are no crates in sight, calming pheromones in the cabin to soothe canine anxiety, and dogs can play with their fellow passengers on their journey. With puppy champagne (chicken broth) and barkaccinos (whipped cream), the flight is a vacation itself. Watch this short video showing how Bark Air works and a reporter’s experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to traveling with your dog, travelers have many questions. Whether it’s your first time flying with your dog or you have travel anxiety, we’ll try to answer your questions. If you don’t see your question below, ask us in the comments, and we’ll find the answer for you.
How Do You Know If A Pet Carrier Is Airline-Approved?
The only way to know for sure that a pet carrier is airline-approved is to check the dimensions yourself. Just because a pet carrier states it is airline-approved doesn’t mean it is approved for all airlines. You also need to ensure that the crate is the right size for your dog and they can travel comfortably in it.
What Size Dog Carrier Will Fit Under An Airline Seat?
This depends on the airline you are flying with because they are all different. It also depends on whether you have a hard-sided crate or a soft-sided one, although most airlines recommend using a soft-sided crate for in-cabin pet travel. I have covered most of the crate dimensions of the major U.S. airlines above, but it’s important to note that these can change at any time. I recommend you check with the airline every time you fly to ensure your dog’s carrier is the right size to fit under an airline seat. Some seats, such as emergency isles, can’t accommodate dogs, so check these requirements before booking.
How Should I Prepare To Fly With My Pup?
Being prepared well ahead of time for your big travel day is vital to a better experience. You can do many things to prepare you and your dog for air travel and traveling with your pup. Get them used to their crate, don’t feed them large meals a few hours beforehand, ensure they go potty before the flight, and have all their documents ready for your travels. These are just a few of the things you need to do. We’ve got many helpful tips on traveling with your pet before, during, and after your journey.
Other Tips For Flying With Your Dog
Now that you’ve found the best airline-approved pet carrier for your dog, you might be interested in other ways to make your journey more enjoyable. If your dog has travel anxiety, you should consider giving them calming treats for dogs before your trip. Learn about the benefits of CBD oil for dogs and how it could soothe your dog’s anxiety. You should also ensure that your dog’s microchip is up to date with your contact details before you travel, just in case you become separated.
Have you and your dog traveled with one of these airline-approved dog crates? Do you have other pet carrier recommendations or general air travel tips for dogs you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments below.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Emma is a dog mom to two rescue dogs, Bonkers and Chips. Emma spent several years living and traveling around Europe and had to relocate from Germany to Spain by air. She had a very unpleasant experience flying with Bonkers and knows the importance of being prepared. But also, no matter how prepared you are, sometimes things don’t go according to plan. Emma is passionate about sharing her knowledge and experience with her readers to make their traveling and life together a much more plain sailing experience.
